President Trump’s transition team is feeling quietly optimistic that Pete Hegseth will push through the latest allegations against him, sources close to the team and several senators told Axios.
Here’s why it’s a big deal: On Wednesday, Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) hinted she might vote against Hegseth, bringing attention to a sworn affidavit from his brother’s ex-wife. Her remarks quickly sent waves through the Republican Party.
Some GOP members are now privately worried that Collins, along with Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), might end up voting “no” on Hegseth.
But here’s the silver lining: Even with three GOP “no” votes, Hegseth could still secure confirmation, especially with Vice President Vance available to break a potential 50-50 tie.
The Allegations: What’s Being Said?
Danielle Hegseth, Pete’s brother’s ex-wife, claims in her affidavit that Pete’s then-wife was afraid for her safety during their marriage. Senators got a chance to review this affidavit yesterday. Pete Hegseth has firmly denied these accusations.
Danielle Hegseth has shared her story to convince senators to reconsider Hegseth’s nomination.
Who Gets the Inside Scoop?
Only the chair and ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee are allowed to access Hegseth’s FBI file—this follows the precedent set by Biden’s nominees. That means only Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Jack Reed (D-R.I.) can decide whether the FBI report includes the details Danielle shared in her interview with the FBI.
According to Danielle’s affidavit, she spoke with the FBI again on January 18.
What Do the Senators Think?
Wicker, the committee chair, feels the affidavit doesn’t change much. He told Axios, “It’s not a show-stopper.”
On the other hand, Reed is more concerned. He said, “I have been concerned that the background check process has been inadequate, and this affidavit confirms that fact.”
The Final Verdict?
Despite all the noise, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who was previously on the fence about Hegseth, seems unfazed by the new allegations. She told Axios, “The ex-wife has denied the allegations and simply wants to be left alone. So if she says it didn’t happen, the other side’s claims don’t carry much weight.”
It looks like the fight over Pete Hegseth’s nomination isn’t over just yet—but Trump’s team is still holding onto hope.
